Who will win the World Cup in 2014?

In the World Cup Final 2014, the Germans (Die Nationalmannschaft) play Argentina (Los Albicelestes). Both teams deserve to make the final, with impressive results and strong performances throughout the tournament.

Why Germany will win

Germany have been consistent throughout this World Cup. The Germans have depth and quality across the pitch, with many of their goals coming from a range of players. If one player isn’t performing, it doesn’t leave a gaping hole.

The Germans also have plenty of experience in their side. Miroslav Klose has recently become the highest goal scorer in World Cups of all time – taking the mantle from Ronaldo. He is 36 years of age, and continues to score at crucial stages.

Goal scoring is required in big matches, and Germany doesn’t have a problem. So far in this tournament, the Germans have beaten Portugal 4-0, drawn 2-2 with Ghana, beaten the US 1-0, beaten Algeria 2-1, beaten France 1-0 and destroyed Brazil 7-1. So Germany have scored 17 goals in the World Cup so far, and are difficult to stop with so many avenues to goal. While Thomas Mueller has scored 5 goals himself, the rest of the team have been contributing plenty as well.

To top it off, the Germans have arguably the most in form keeper in the world with Manuel Neuer. He has been blocking, and sweeping exceptionally well throughout this World Cup, which has lightened the load on the German defenders. In turn, this has meant they are able to play more aggressively in search for more goals up forward.

Why Argentina will win

Argentina have got results throughout this World Cup without looking super impressive. While hot favourites (and arch enemy) Brazil bowed out, much to the delight of Argentina’s supporters, the Argentinians themselves have continued to get through matches not particularly convincingly. Their focus has been on defence, with quality players up forward scoring when needed. Against the Dutch last game, this tactic worked well – refusing to allow the Dutch to score and sending the game into extra time and eventually a penalty shoot out.

Argentina have arguably the best player in the world in Lionel Messi. He is an absolute superstar and can conjure a win from nothing. His last gasp winner against Iran was perfect and removed any stresses that the Argentines may have had about progressing into the next round.

So far, the Argentines have the following (undefeated) results at the 2014 World Cup: Bosnia & Herzegovina 2-1, Iran 1-0, Nigeria 3-2, Switzerland 1-0, Belgium 1-0 and the Netherlands 4-2 (on penalties). In total, Los Albicelestes have scored 8 goals at the World Cup and conceded only 3 goals.

Along with Messi, Argentina have a range of high quality players who are in top sides around the world. This list of top flight players include: Sergio Romero (Monaco), Pablo Zabaleta, Martin Demichelis and Sergio Aguero (Manchester City), Javier Mascherano and Lionel Messi (Barcelona) and Angel Di Maria (Real Madrid). Any team with this sort of talent can turn any result.

Conclusion

The Germans are a potent goal scoring nation, with depth across the pitch. In all likelihood, the Argentines will be focusing on their defensive efforts, and removing as many opportunities for the Germans as possible. At the other end of the pitch, Lionel Messi and the other forwards like Aguero (if fit) and Di Maria will need to take advantage of any chance that presents itself. The best outcome for this match is if Germany score early, as they are unlikely to go completely into their shell – and the Argentines will be forced to play a more aggressive and attacking brand of football. Germany have the class to win the game – and become the first European team to win the World Cup in South America.